KUALA LUMPUR: Part-time job scams in Malaysia have surged sharply this year, with reported cases rising by 146% and losses reaching RM202.58 million, according to the Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID).
CCID director Comm Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said 8,484 cases were recorded between Jan 1 and Dec 14, compared with 3,451 cases during the same period last year an increase of 5,033 cases. Financial losses also climbed nearly 70%, up from RM118.83 million last year.
He said investigations show syndicates typically operate via social media and messaging apps, luring victims with part-time job offers that promise quick and high returns. Victims are later instructed to make upfront payments or transfer funds into mule accounts.
Comm Rusdi stressed that legitimate employers never require upfront payments and urged the public to avoid sharing personal or banking details with unknown parties.
Victims are advised to contact the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) at 997 immediately and lodge a police report to enable swift fund tracing and freezing. Source: The Star
HackWarn Analysis
Why Part-Time Job Scams Are Rising Rapidly
- Low barrier, high reach: Scammers exploit social media and messaging apps to reach victims quickly and at scale.
- False urgency and easy money: Promises of fast returns pressure victims into quick decisions.
- Upfront payment traps: Requests for “activation fees” or “task deposits” funnel money into mule accounts.
- Trust-by-design: Casual job offers appear harmless, lowering skepticism.
What the Public Should Do Now
- Never pay to get a job. Any upfront fee is a red flag.
- Verify offers independently. Check company details via official channels.
- Protect personal data. Do not share IDs, bank details, or OTPs.
- Act fast if targeted. Call NSRC 997 immediately and file a police report to improve chances of fund recovery.
